tj wrote:
Need to buy a new one, any thoughts? Looking to spend under $500 if possible, thanks

TJ,
According to a recent Consumers Report article on canister vacuums you
have a bunch to pick from... from $150 to 2000. As it turns out more
expensive doesn't mean better.

The "Top-Rated" canister in all their testing was a Sears model! Go
figure!

Whats good about Sears is if you don't like it they take it back no
questions asked. Also, Sears is always running sales so you should be
able to improve on the price. Heres what Consumers said in their
review:

Kenmore (Sears) Progressive Model 25915. Retail $500. A very good,
bag-equipped canister. On/off brush switch. On/off switch on handle.
Retractable cord. Full-bag alert. Suction control. Manual pile
adjustment. Overload protection for blower-fan and rotating brush
motor. Hose longer than most. HEPA filter. Motor control with more than
one speed. Dirt sensor.

GENERAL FEATURES

Bag: Yes
Manual pile adjust: Yes
Suction control: Yes
Brush on/off control: Yes
Retractable cord: Yes
Easy on/off: Yes
Full-bag/bin indicator: Yes
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter: Yes
Weight (lbs.): 24